LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says that some businesses are seeking to profit illegally off of coronavirus fears.
The warning comes after discovering that a store in Allendale was selling individual face masks in Ziploc bags for $10 each. Wood TV’s Target8 claims credit for bringing it to Nessel’s attention, which was confirmed by her office.
“Those who think they can profit off the rising fears about coronavirus need to think again,” Nessel said in a statement. “The Michigan Consumer Protection Act makes price-gouging illegal. It also gives our office tools it can use against profiteers who fuel panic by manipulating prices and supplies.”
The action taken by the retailer in question may be a violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act, which makes the following actions unlawful:
- Charging the consumer a price that is grossly in excess of the price at which similar property or services are sold; and
- Causing coercion and duress as the result of the time and nature of a sales presentation.
“I will not hesitate to bring the hammer down on any person or business that uses this public health threat to feed their own greed,” Nessel said. “So, whether you run a national chain, a local store or are just looking for ways to get rich on eBay, the expectations are the same: follow the law. We are at the beginning of a unique and potentially difficult situation. It is my sincere hope that we will all pull together and help protect the most vulnerable among us.”
Michigan residents should report any violation of the Consumer Protection Act online or by calling 877-765-8388.
